Question:
Has anyone had medicare/medicaid that has paid for reconstructive lower body life?

   — Judy H. (posted on October 27, 2004)

October 27, 2004
I do not have a answer for you, but I have Medicare and asked this same question but about a tt or abdomoplasty and I only got one response. The lady that responed told me that her friend has Medicare and they approved a Pannectomy (sp). I just had a consult with my ps and he is putting in to my insurance for a Panni, but his assistant told me that Medicare does not actually approve or disapprove the surgery until afterwards, so if you do the surgery and they do not approve you are left paying the cost. I am fortunate to have a seconary insurance (military) that the ps office will submit the Panni and will have a diffent approve before my surgery.
   — cindy

October 28, 2004
Hello. My insurance (BC/BS) covered the panni (tummy) part of my LBL only. Most insurances consider the thigh and butt lift part of the LBL cosmetic. I have read in some extreme cases that it was covered for some people. My advice is to have lots of documentation of medical problems and a PS who works with lots of GB patients. Good Luck! Lacy 288/119 @ goal
   — Lacy G.

November 15, 2004
I have medicare/medicaid and had a LBL and inner thigh lift on September 25, 2004. Medicaid pre approved and I just got a statement from medicare saying they did pay it. I know it had to be medically necessary. It took 4-5 months for my authorization. Good luck. Nancy down 140 lbs. Lap RNY 6-25-03
   — Nancy S.